Australia’s ski season may be short, but it leaves many riders craving more once the snow melts. Whether you’re an avid skier, a snowboarder chasing fresh powder, or someone looking to combine travel with seasonal work, the northern hemisphere offers incredible opportunities to extend your winter.

Here are five of the world’s best ski destinations, along with five essential tips to help you plan, travel smart, and even work your way around the mountains.

Top 5 Ski Destinations Around the World
  1. Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
    Whistler is one of the most iconic ski resorts in the world, famous for its vast terrain, reliable snowfall, and lively après-ski scene. With over 200 trails and plenty of backcountry access, it suits all levels. The resort also attracts seasonal workers from across the globe, so it’s a great place to find community as well as employment.

  2. Niseko, Japan
    For those who dream of bottomless powder, Niseko is paradise. Located on Hokkaido, Japan’s northern island, Niseko receives an incredible amount of snow thanks to Siberian weather systems. The culture, food, and onsen (hot springs) make the experience even more magical. Seasonal jobs exist, but competition can be stiff, so planning ahead is key.

  3. Chamonix, France
    Chamonix sits in the shadow of Mont Blanc and offers some of the most challenging terrain in the world. It’s a mecca for advanced skiers and mountaineers, with endless opportunities for off-piste adventures. Working in Chamonix can be rewarding, but it often requires EU working rights, so Australians may want to focus on temporary work or partner with hospitality chains that hire globally.

  4. Aspen, USA
    Aspen combines world-class skiing with glamour, culture, and big mountain terrain. It’s a celebrity hotspot, but also home to multiple ski areas catering to different levels. Jobs range from ski instructors to hospitality, and U.S. visas can be arranged through cultural exchange programs, making Aspen a popular destination for Australians seeking both work and play.

  5. Queenstown & Wanaka, New Zealand
    Closer to home, New Zealand is perfect for bridging the gap between seasons. Resorts like Treble Cone, The Remarkables, and Cardrona offer fantastic snow, breathtaking scenery, and a vibrant seasonal worker culture. For Australians, the ease of travel and work arrangements across the Tasman makes NZ the ideal stepping stone to chasing endless winters.
Top 5 Tips for Your Next Ski Holiday (or Seasonal Job)
  1. Follow the Snow Calendar
    Australia’s season runs from June to early October, while the northern hemisphere starts in November and can last until May in some resorts. This means you can easily ski year-round by alternating hemispheres—Australia or New Zealand in winter, then Canada, Japan, Europe, or the U.S. for the northern season.

  2. Sort Out Work Visas Early
    If you’re looking to work while abroad, don’t leave visas to the last minute. Countries like Canada and the U.S. offer working holiday programs for Australians, but spots are limited and competitive. Europe can be more complex, though companies occasionally sponsor roles in hospitality or instructing. Always check official visa websites for current requirements.

  3. Budget for the Mountains
    Ski holidays aren’t cheap—lift passes, equipment, food, and accommodation can quickly add up. If you’re not working, plan your budget carefully and look into multi-day or season passes for savings. For workers, resorts often provide subsidized housing and discounted lift passes, which helps make the lifestyle more affordable.

  4. Consider Training or Certification
    If you want to increase your chances of finding work, look into ski or snowboard instructor courses. Certifications like BASI (British), CSIA (Canadian), or APSI (Australian) are recognized internationally and can open doors to jobs across the globe. Bartending and hospitality experience are also highly valued in resort towns.

  5. Pack Smart and Adapt
    Conditions vary widely. Japan’s powder requires good outerwear and face protection, Europe’s mountains can be brutally cold, and North America often has bluebird days. If working, pack clothing for all seasons since resort towns are lively long after lifts close. A good pair of boots, layers, and durable gloves are non-negotiable.

Final Thoughts

Chasing winter around the world is more than a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. From the powder fields of Japan to the glamour of Aspen and the rugged beauty of Chamonix, every resort offers a unique flavour of adventure. For Australians, the dream of an endless ski season is not only possible but increasingly popular, with opportunities to work, travel, and immerse yourself in mountain culture.

So, if you’ve just packed away your skis after another great Aussie season, don’t let the snow-dream end. Follow it across the globe—you might find your next great adventure (and even your next job) waiting at the top of the chairlift.

If this article has inspired you to think about your unique situation and, more importantly, what you and your family are going through right now, please get in touch with your advice professional.

This information does not consider any person’s objectives, financial situation, or needs. Before making a decision, you should consider whether it is appropriate in light of your particular objectives, financial situation, or needs.

(Feedsy Exclusive)

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstance before acting on it and, where appropriate, seek professional advice.